Peer-learning activity for communicating algorithms in a Level 2 computer science module

Project leader(s): Ravi Rajani
Theme: Other
Faculty: STEM
Status: Current
Dates: May 2023 to September 2024

The project seeks to increase interaction among students on M269 Algorithms, data structures and computability ¹ and develop skills in communicating and evaluating technical concepts with peers. Our idea is to adapt a successful assessed group exercise in TM354 Software engineering ² to a new activity for M269 which will provide training in explaining algorithms in English, giving constructive feedback, and reflecting on comments from peers.

The approach we will take is to run a pilot activity with around 20 student volunteers. They will design and post an algorithm to a shared online area and leave a comment on two other students’ algorithms. Participants will subsequently upload a revised algorithm that incorporates peer feedback.

We will evaluate students’ views on the activity with a questionnaire and email interviews, and assess tutors’ perceptions in a reflective meeting. The activity will take place between TMA01 and TMA02 so that we can compare learning analytics of the participating students’ TMA scores.

The M269 module chair is enthusiastic about the project and has indicated that the activity may be incorporated into future TMAs if the conclusions of our inquiry contain a recommendation to do so. This would have real impact in M269, but our findings will also be of interest to the wider community of computer science educators who are looking for innovative ways to engage students in group algorithm activities that are highly applicable to tech careers in industry and research.

The principal beneficiaries would be students: By interacting with peers, the sense of isolation that comes with distance learning will be partially alleviated. Moreover, the activity will provide key skills (see below) for job interviews and the workplace, thereby increasing the relevance of the course and, ultimately, better outcomes in progression to employment.

¹Algorithms, data structures and computability (intranet)

² Software engineering (intranet)